Cybercrime Doubles, Commissioner of Police Urges Public Vigilance

Cybercrime cases in the Maldives doubled during the first six months of this year compared to the same period last year, with social media scams accounting for 68 per cent of all reported offences, Commissioner of Police Ahmed Mohamed revealed.

The sharp rise in digital crime was highlighted by the Police Commissioner in an official statement released for Cybersecurity Awareness Month this October, an annual international initiative aimed at raising public awareness about digital risks and online safety.

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According to Commissioner Ahmed Mohamed, criminals are increasingly utilising emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to generate deceptive messages, voice clones, and deepfake videos designed to scam the public. He noted that nearly 85 per cent of the Maldivian population currently uses the internet, exposing individuals, businesses, and state institutions to elevated digital threats as financial transactions and government services transition online.

The Police Commissioner identified low public awareness and oversight, such as clicking unverified links, sharing one-time passwords (OTPs), and trusting unverified online entities, as primary vulnerabilities exploited by perpetrators. In response, he assured that the Maldives Police Service is procuring advanced digital infrastructure, expanding technical capacity, and conducting nationwide awareness sessions throughout October.

Commissioner Ahmed Mohamed emphasised the crucial role of families in mitigating these risks. He urged parents to monitor their children’s online interactions and teach them safe internet practices. Additionally, he called on citizens to assist elderly family members who are particularly vulnerable to digital scams as part of their shared familial and social responsibility.

To prevent cyber offences, the police chief urged individuals to adopt two-factor authentication, use strong passwords, and report suspicious activities immediately. State institutions and private enterprises were also advised to enforce strict data protection protocols, avoid over-collecting personal data, and regularly update IT infrastructure.